Gladwyne Girl Honored For Work With Adults With Disabilites

A Gladwyne Elementary School fifth grader has been recognized with a unique award.

Tessa Mahoney has been named the recipient of the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award, according to the Lower Merion School District.

She was conferred the honor at the 30th Annual Philanthropy Day, sponsored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

The award recognizes service by an individual aged 10-23 who demonstrates outstanding commitment to the community through development of charitable programs, volunteering and leadership in philanthropy.

Mahoney’s journey to winning this award began more than two years ago, the school district said.

While she was a student in Jennifer Gilbert’s third grade class, Mahoney started working on something unique.

Gilbert had assigned her students to complete a community service project in which Mahoney chose to work with the Inglis House – a specialty nursing care facility that provides long-term, residential care for adults with multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury and other physical disabilities.

When the assignment was complete, however, Mahoney decided she wanted to keep working at the Inglis House as she continued to attend functions, volunteer her time and raise money on behalf of the organization.

At her last birthday party, she also asked friends and family to donate to the Inglis House in lieu of gifts. The staff at Inglis House was so impressed with Mahoney’s commitment and generosity that they nominated her for this prestigious award, which she ultimately won.

In her acceptance speech at the AFP event, Mahoney thanked her former teacher, Jennifer Gilbert, for being an “extraordinary mentor” and for inspiring her to embrace the spirit of giving.

“We are really proud of the spirit of service that is so evident in Lower Merion School District and Tessa’s recognition from the Association of Fundraising Professionals is a testament to her and a symbol for our school’s commitment to service,” said Acting Principal Scott Weinstein. “We are really proud of Tessa for representing Gladwyne so well.”

Image courtesy Lower Merion School District.